​KBF Program Director Greg Durso is still smiling after an incredible three days at the National Ability Center (NAC) in Park City, Utah for the Shepherd Center’s Winter Camp. The Shepherd Center is a rehabilitation hospital located in Atlanta Georgia. Through their Recreation Therapy program, individuals have the opportunity to travel, have fun learning new skills, and connect with their community across the country. 

The KBF was able to support the Shepherd Center with this opportunity which brought 5 individuals on this special trip where everyone stayed on-site at the NAC lodge. The main activity was three days of snow skiing, where the 5 trip participants got on snow for the first time since their injuries. “It was a special week for me personally because I got to help teach each participant alongside the amazing NAC instructors,” Greg described upon his return home. They got to take a tour of the incredible new facility at the NAC, located right on the mountain with super easy access to the snow!

This trip was full of additional exciting activities, from icebreaker activities to rock climbing to pickleball! A highlight for many was the opportunity to go snow tubing, described by Greg as nothing other than a “giggle fest!” The group also ventured into the town of Park City for dinner. The smaller group led to a unique opportunity for real relationship-building that has turned into lifelong friendships. As one participant described, “I don’t have many opportunities to spend time and bond with others in my ‘community’ at home and I left with new friendships that I know will continue past the three days spent at the NAC.”

The Kelly Brush Foundation is excited about the future camps planned with the Shepherd Center, including their Steamboat Springs Clinic at STARS Ranch in July!